Barbara D.

100% Satisfaction Guarantee

We know that starting lessons is a big step and we want you to feel confident
booking with us. If you are not completely satisfied,
we'll help you find a new teacher or you can receive a refund for any unused lessons
within the first year from the date of purchase.

100% Satisfaction Guarantee

100% Satisfaction Guarantee

We know that starting lessons is a big step and we want you to feel confident
booking with us. If you are not completely satisfied,
we'll help you find a new teacher or you can receive a refund for any unused lessons
within the first year from the date of purchase.

Music Theory

Levels Taught:

Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced

Learning to read music is so essential to playing an instrument. While playing by ear is important, you cannot play most of the written works if you don't know how to decipher those dots on the staff. I will help you whether you are a beginner or are ready for college level theory.

Barbara teaches

Barbara delivers an exceptional lesson experience and ranks in the top
15% of our teachers nationwide.

Teaches students:

Ages 5+ and special needs

Teaching since:

September 2005

Learning to play a musical instrument is a skill that has been proven to improve brain activity. It is one of the only activities to engage both sides of the brain. Students who learn a musical instrument show improvement in their ability to pay attention and understand what is being taught in their academic classes. Most students retain this advantage even if they do not continue to play into adulthood.

Music is fun! It also can express your feelings in ways words cannot. I don't just teach you how to play your instrument, I will teach you to have a love for your music, and from that, you will find that it is a lot of fun! After all, you do "play" your instrument!

In addition to the violin, viola and theory lessons described below, I am also available to coach ensembles. Any combination of string instruments you are working with, I will work with your group to improve your cohesiveness and your musical style.

Violin/Viola Teacher

Aug 2009 - Present

Self-employed

After leaving Gitter Picker I began teaching most of my lessons at Dodge Intermediate School in Twinsburg. I now teach from my home. Most of my students are in Twinsburg Schools and members of the orchestra. I have had many students perform at the OMEA Solo/Ensemble Adjudicated Event at the High School and Middle School levels. My students consistently receive Excellent and Superior ratings. Beginning in 2017, I will have my students perform in a recital in June so that they may have the chance to show what they have accomplished during a the year.

Master of Music

Bachelor of Music

National Association for Music Education

Jan 2004

Founded in 1907, NAfME is among the world’s largest arts education organizations. NAfME advocates at the local, state, and national levels; provides resources for teachers, parents, and administrators; hosts professional development events; and offers a variety of opportunities for students and teachers.

Nice to have the one on one teaching experience. If you have an issue she can stop you right on the spot that is giving you an issue and tell you what your are doing incorrectly. She also tells you what you are doing right.

Belinda Adornetto
Feb 9, 2016

Viola·In home

She was very patient with me (a brand new student). She showed me a lot of tips and gave me insight to the violin that I did not know. Definitely worth the lesson

Kylee Z.
Sep 15, 2015

Violin·In home

Kylee really enjoyed her first lesson and is pumped to play this instrument. Barb was super nice and Kylee worked well with her.

John D.
Jan 29, 2015

Violin·In studio

Very professional and easy to work with!

Sara L.
Dec 3, 2014

Violin·In studio

Barbara is an amazing teacher! My son looks forward to lessons with her and can't wait to tell his friends and family what he has learned each week. She knows what pace to work at and is very patient. Wonderful teacher !

E C.
Jul 4, 2014

Violin·In home

My son has been taking lessons for several years with Barb. His skills and technique improved dramatically when he began and have continue to improve over the years. He received the "most improved" award in orchestra after his first year of lessons. He performs challenging music well at annual recitals and in Akron Youth Philharmonic with Barb's guidance. Barb is encouraging during lessons, yet always points out specific things that need attention for the next week. I highly recommend her.

We have been taking lessons with Barbara for several years now and her expertise is top notch. She has worked with both my 11 year old and 13 year old daughter. My oldest was principal for the entire 7th grade year and the lessons are what made a difference in her skill level. I am excited for my girls to continue to grow in their love of music and the viola and credit Barb for our private lessons. We are looking forward to this years solo and ensembles performance and already picked out our music. I highly recommend taking lessons with Barbara she is very flexible in her schedule and it's very convenient to set up and reschedule appointments and her prices are very reasonable.